August 2009
Howdy Do! Well, we've had a quiet summer here at Rosewillow but things are still happening! Joy just installed over 175 new blog themes which brings it to over 400 in total. What's a blog? What's a Theme? Oh heck, it would be easier if you check it out for yourselves.
They really are a lot of fun. Joy's also looking into different plugins to add to the blogs. Just another quick mention this month about spam removal. We have been keeping the place tidy and deleting spam as quickly as we catch it. We will usually leave a note in your forum that it has been deleted but from time to time if we have a lot to remove we might forget. So if you get a notification of a post in your guestbook or forum and it's not there it was probably us removing the spam. We will never remove personal posts from forums or guestbooks. We have found that if we keep knocking down the spam we get less of it. I would ask that if you have a forum or guestbook you seldom use please check out your control panel and set it to REGISTERED HANDLES ONLY. This will block any attempts at spamming and make things for us a bit easier. I do hope you all are having a wonderful summer. Your Mayor
HALO "I have defied gods and demons. I am your shield; I am your sword. I know you; your past, your future..... This is the way the world ends." - Cortana, Halo 3 I can remember, back in 2002, being given a new game at a -=DFA=- LAN. I was told that this was a 1999 game that had been ported over to PC from the Xbox and that the multiplayer was second to none. It was indeed good and we played this new space shooter for an hour or so before returning to our usual WWII fare. The name of this game was ..... Halo: Combat Evolved, the first offering in the epic Halo series. Halo is a science fiction video game franchise, created by Bungie and owned and published by Microsoft Game Studios. Set several centuries in the future, the story of Halo is one of the most intriguing and interesting stories in the world of gaming. The main trilogy of games center on the experiences of the Master Chief, a cybernetically-enhanced human super-soldier, and his AI(Artificial Intelligence) companion, Cortana. The Master Chief aids future humanity in battling the Covenant, a theocratic alliance of alien races. In this science fiction setting, the term "Halo" refers to Halo megastructures: large, habitable ringed structures, similar to Larry Niven's ringworlds.
A few weeks after I had been given the first incarnation of the game, I was in our local Chapters bookstore and was thrilled to find a paperback novel called "Halo:The Flood". When I arrived home clutching my new found prize, I immediatly fired up the first game's single player and was amazed to find that the game's story mirrored the novel's plot. This blew me away and I spent the next week mesmorized as I savoured the experience of reading a chapter in the book and then interacting with the story in the game. There have been six Halo novels released to date, and each explores a different facet of humanity's ongoing struggle against the Covenant (and vice versa). While it's true that Microsoft has released Halo:Combat Evolved and Halo 2 to PC, the halo series is primarily an Xbox exclusive experience. I bought my first Xbox after being too impatient waiting the 3 or more years lag time for the installments to released on PC. Xbox is the platform to truly experience Halo multiplayer. Multiplayer has always been a very important part of the Halo franchise, whether you are battling people from around the world on Xbox Live or you are playing locally with all of your good friends. Players can play "campaign co-op" or participate in a "versus" multiplayer match through use of split screen on a single console or on several consoles through the use of LAN or Xbox Live(Microsoft's online service). Statistics from all games that are completed by players while connected to Xbox Live are also uploaded to the respective player's "service record" on Bungie.net. Beyond the original trilogy, other "Halo" games have branched off into other genres of play, with different developers; including Halo Wars, a real-time strategy game; Halo: Chronicles, which is being developed by Peter Jackson; Halo 3: ODST, a prequel to Halo 3; and Halo: Reach, a squad based shooter schedualed for release late next year. Chances are, if you own an Xbox, you are already familiar with Halo. Halo:Combat Evolved and Halo 2 will both run on the original Xbox and the Xbox 360(and as I mentioned earlier, PC versions of these games are available). Halo 3, Halo Wars and future titles will be for the 360 only(with PC versions following years later I'm sure). I should also mention that besides the aforementioned novels, there are graphic novels, soundtracks and other licensed products available. The cultural impact of the Halo series has been compared to that of Star Wars with the collective group of fans of the series being referred to as the "Halo Nation". Jump in to this amazing science fiction story my friends and enjoy the ride.
Omni
We would like to introduce everyone to some of our vendors at The Town Mall.
123inkjets is a leading provider of discount printer ink and toner for virtually every inkjet or laser printer on the market. We carry a full line of printer inkjet cartridges, inkjet refill kits, laser toner, fax toner and countless other printer supplies that allow you to save money, without sacrificing quality. With 123inkjets, you can shop online for printer ink cartridges, toner cartridges or InkTec ink refill kits knowing you'll receive top-notch products that print to the highest performance and quality standards possible. We also provide customer service and support that leaves our competition in the dust by making your shopping experience quick, easy and stress-free because we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all products we sell. Ships to United States and Canada.
When Westport Big & Tall started in 1989, we set out to find the finest makers of dress and casual clothing for the tall and big man. We began with one retail store in Westport, Connecticut, expanded to Charlotte, North Carolina, and now reach customers in every city in the country with WestportBigandTall.com. Our national catalogue operation mails over 4 million catalogs a year to all parts of the US. We attribute our success to the quality products that we carry. Our collection is made up of superior clothiers such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Cutter & Buck, Tommy Bahama, Bobby Jones, Peter Millar, and Cooper Jones just to name a few. Our commitment to quality is what sets Westport apart. Our unending search for the best will always provide our customers the quality and style that they deserve. It’s been said that clothes make the man, at Westport Big & Tall, we’re going to make you look your best. Ships to United States and Canada.
The Sports Center invites and welcomes you to take part in NFL games, beginning in September. Match your wits against all others in picking the winners each week! Dare to be shrewd in Pick-3 bidding... or hedge your bets in Lucky Loser!! Take your chances in fantasy-football against Triceratops, stroker & Thunder Thighs!!! Or post your thoughts on Michael Vick, or pose a question. All are welcome - even Ed.
Thank you to our contributors this month. We really appreciate your participation.
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I hope you've enjoyed this month's edition of The Oracle Pierre
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4 cups sliced peeled peaches
Preparation: In large Dutch oven and using potato masher mash peaches to make 3 cups. In separate bowl, mash raspberries to make 3 cups add to peaches., Add lemon juice Mix pectin with 1/4 cup of the sugar; stir into peach mixture. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining sugar and return to a full rolling boil. Boil hard stirring for one minute. Remove fron heat; skim off foam. Using funnel, fill hot 1 cup canning jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Cover with prepared lids. Screw on bands until resistace is met. Increase to fingertip tight. Boil in boiling water canner for 10 minutes: Additional Information To peel peaches: Score X into the base with a sharp knife. Submerge peach into boiling water for 30 seconds. With slotted spoon, transfer to cold water. Remove and peel. Place in mixture of 4 cups water and 1/4 cup lemon juice to prevent browning while working. EnJoy
If you were born between July 23st to August 22th you have been born under the sign of Leo.
Leo is the most dominant sign of the zodiac. They are ambitious, courageous, strong willed, self-confident and self-controlled. Leo's are born leaders. They can be generous and warmhearted, creative and enthusiastic Faithful and very loving. On the flipside their faults can be as large in scale as their virtues. Leo can be one of the most unpleasant human beings imaginable, displaying extreme arrogance, arrogant and over bearing, and excessivly quick tempered. Being energetic and positive, Leos tend to enhance the lives of those around them to the point of ignoring their own health needs. Many Leos go into their mid life with what appears to be endless energy, they at some point will have to come to grips with the fact that they too are not immortal. Their desire for rich foods and fine wines that seem irresistible can lead to their ultimate demise. Leo has power over the back and heart and these two areas are extremely vulnerable to excessive behaviors. Obviously a good diet in moderation and a followed exercise program are true remedies for a growing waistline which Leos may tend to ignore. Leos, being high energy, need to allow for a recharging of the batteries. An unhappy Leo may become depressed and as a result overeat causing that dreaded stomach bulge as well as back pain. Take time to exercise and follow a nutritional diet plan. Don't forget to visit me at the Mystic Rose for your free readings!
Blessed Be
Aries: You are in a swinging mood and you seek fun and excitement. If your spouse or partner is not responsive to your urges, you will see him/her as boring, stuck-in-the-mud, and too serious. You are so interested in having a good time that you often overlook little chores and obligations, and you find it hard to understand why someone else should hold up the party because of some insignificant chore. Why mow the lawn on Saturday morning when you can go to the beach? Why eat at home when you can eat out? Why sit and watch TV when you can plan an exciting party? Why work when you can use vacation time to visit a romantic, exciting place? It seems very clear to you that now is the time to really enjoy a good time, and hopefully your spouse or partner feels the same way. Taurus: This time may be spent trying to iron out the wrinkles in a close love relationship or marriage. Your spouse or partner may be a source of disappointment when their behavior falls short of your expectations. Although you may think you are being obvious about your wants and needs, your mate may not have a true understanding or be able to read your intentions. It is likely you will feel some resentment toward your partner if you feel you are not being appreciated and respected. Even if you do not see eye to eye with your mate, reflecting on the more positive qualities of the relationship will help smooth over minor difficulties. Gemini: Opportunities arise for you to turn your creative imagination and knowledge into tangible achievements. This would be a good time to draw, paint, write or design plans, as other people are inspired by your ideas and sensitivity. You have distinct impressions which prove remarkably accurate. Even if you feel a bit introspective or reclusive now, your instinct will direct you to bring form to your inherent talents. You also have much to offer to people who are confined or hospitalized now in the form of guidance and compassion. Cancer: You may find yourself at an impasse regarding a concern at work. Although a minor setback or delay is possible, you may do best now by maintaining a low profile. Conflicts of interest may arise between you and a superior or co-worker, leaving you feeling you do not get the respect or approval you seek. Your own leadership qualities may not be noticed or appreciated in ways that support your professional interests. Try not to assess your self-worth only on the basis of what you can accomplish at work now. Hold on to your self-confidence and take this time as an opportunity to gain further understanding of your vocational purposes and directions. Leo: Relationships with others are harmonious and stable now. Someone older than yourself, more experienced, or in a position of authority is likely to assist you now in the things that are important to you. Government agencies and businesses also respond positively to issues and ideas that concern you. This is a good time for any communications with authorities or persons of social prominence. You are feeling confident and the serious-mindedness and maturity of your communications is appreciated by others. You have a greater rapport with others now, especially on issues that deeply concern you. Others seem less superficial and irresponsible to you, and you feel greater respect for them. Actually, others haven't changed as much as it would appear; you are better able to communicate with others and see the more mature side of their personalities. Virgo: This is not a favorable period for handling legal affairs or transactions with professionals and persons in authority. There will be complications and entanglements requiring you to apply sound judgment and rational thinking in managing these affairs. Others may not be straightforward and honest in your associations with them. For example, you may be overworked at your job, because your boss or superior has higher than usual expectations of your abilities. You take on the additional pressures without the assurance of a promotion or higher position in the organization and therefore you are in a dilemma over whether or not you are being exploited or manipulated. You must use this period to tap into your own inner guidance and wisdom to steer you toward success. Libra: Try to avoid stirring up controversy when stating your views and opinions now. You may be eager to put your ideas and thoughts into operation, but lack cooperation on several fronts. Finding other people who support your position may seem impossible now. It may be best to let someone else take the lead now, even if you are not willing to go along with their plans. Your sense of pride can be wounded if you allow others to get the best of you. You are better off waiting for a more opportune period to advance your personal and professional interests. Scorpio: Bonds of affection strengthen in your romantic or marital partnership. The relationship with your mate is mutually supportive and encourages you both to see each other as unique and special individuals. You share mutual trust, devotion and admiration as a couple and are secure in the understanding that your partner will be at your side through thick and thin. There is a likelihood that a deeper commitment will take place in your relationship. Or if you are without a "significant other", a brand new attraction may come into your life, and you might form a alliance based on complementary personalities and mutual interests. Sagittarius: Some adjustments in the way you express yourself and treat others are required now. Others may complain that you are not sincere with them, or that you are too domineering or passive or unfair in some respect. You may also find yourself feeling the need to approach others about the way they express themselves and treat others. This is the time to evaluate whether you are guilty of any hypocrisies, insincerities, or laxness in expressing the ideals and beliefs that are important to you. You may find yourself feeling disappointed in others or losing confidence in yourself but do not allow yourself to wallow in self-pity and negative feelings. Instead, try to see clearly where changes are needed and make them. You can find ways to be more sympathetic, understanding, and honest now and break old habits of indifference and negligence to others. Capricorn: Fortunate experiences and displays of generosity are in abundance. General good fortune and successful financial gains are obtained through expanding your creative or career goals. Your personal needs and caretaking abilities are in tune with your loved ones, and great strides can be made in fulfilling family needs. This is a time when legal affairs should prove to be beneficial, and there is a possibility of an inheritance or of receiving much needed financial assistance at this time. The sharing of household responsibilities and nurturing needs are cooperative and easily handled. Health matters may improve under this astrological influence. Benefits may also come through your involvement with children, or a desire to expand your family unit could be felt at this time. Aquarius: This is a very promising time for mental, creative, educational, and spiritual pursuits. Your studies and personal aspirations are likely to lead you to new personal growth, influential contacts, and wider horizons. You will greatly benefit from opportunities to travel, higher learning, or legal and professional matters. If you have a skill or talent in a particular area, this would be a good time to improve or enhance this ability. Intuitive flashes or hunches may reveal insightful ideas or useful ways to plan and strategize new methods or creative enterprises. Networking with people who share your intellectual and creative interests will also work out to your benefit now. Pisces: This is an upbeat, refreshing time period. Progressive changes in your life and relationships make this an enjoyable, exciting time. The changes are not likely to be extraordinary in scope, but a definite enlivening of your relationship to others and the world in general is evident. You meet people who are interesting and really alive. You are likely to visit places that inspire you, and you feel more excited about your daily life and the things you do. Most obvious is the change in relationships to others. Drab and dull interactions seem to evaporate as you find exciting ideas and interests to share. This is an excellent time to investigate new clubs, groups, or individuals that you previously have not taken the time to become familiar with. Creative hobbies or interests that you have forgotten about or never seriously considered before may also come into view now. Take advantage of this time period to make your life more interesting and stimulating. -Deborah Browning
Thousands more free online cryptograms at Cryptograms.org.
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